How Much Compensation for a Broken Ankle?

A broken ankle is a common injury that occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle joint are broken or cracked. This type of injury can significantly impact your ability to work and carry out everyday tasks like shopping, taking kids to school and meeting up with friends.

The severity of a broken ankle injury can vary, ranging from a hairline crack to a complete fracture with bone displacement. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking or bearing weight and deformity. The treatment typically involves immobilisation, rest and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the broken bones.

You could suffer a broken ankle for various reasons, including car accidents, sports injuries, falls or accidents at work. If someone else caused your injury by acting negligently, you might be entitled to claim broken ankle compensation. Your settlement will cover the pain and suffering caused by the fracture, as well as any related financial losses and expenses.

To find out how much compensation for a broken ankle you could receive, call 0800 678 1410 or arrange a call back today for a free consultation with a legal adviser. If you are eligible for compensation, you can benefit from a No Win No Fee service, meaning there are no upfront fees to pay, and you will not lose a single penny if your case is unsuccessful.

Am I eligible to claim broken ankle compensation?

If you have suffered a broken ankle due to someone else’s fault, you might be able to claim compensation. Your eligibility will depend on your specific circumstances and can be assessed by an experienced legal adviser during a free consultation over the phone. As a general rule, a broken ankle claim should be possible if:

• The party you are claiming against owed you a duty of care
• They broke that duty by acting negligently and causing an accident
• You suffered a broken ankle injury as a result

You do not have to worry about proving a duty of care, as this is something your solicitor will review when you contact them. A duty of care usually results from government legislation, such as:

• The Road Traffic Act 1988, if you were injured in a road accident
• The Consumer Protection Act 1987, if you suffered a broken ankle due to a faulty product
• The Occupiers Liability Act 1957, if you had an accident in a public place, such as a shop or restaurant
• The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 imposes a duty of care on employers to prevent accidents to employers at work

Once a duty of care is established, your solicitor will help you gather the evidence to prove negligence and the extent of your injuries. That will play an essential role in determining the broken ankle compensation amount you could receive for your injury.

What evidence do I need to claim compensation for a broken ankle?

To claim compensation for a broken ankle, you will need to provide evidence that:

• The accident was not your fault – you will need to show that someone else was responsible for the accident that caused your broken ankle. For example, this could be another person, a company, or a local authority.
• The accident resulted in your injury – you must have medical evidence to prove the extent of your broken ankle injury and any long-term effects it might have on your life.
• The injury has caused you financial loss – you will need to provide evidence of any expenses you have incurred due to your broken ankle, such as medical bills, travel costs, and loss of earnings.
• The injury has caused you pain and suffering – you will need to provide evidence of the impact that your broken ankle has had on your life, such as the amount of pain you have experienced, any limitations on your daily activities, and any psychological distress you have suffered.

It is essential to gather as much evidence as possible to claim compensation for a broken ankle, which could include the following:

• Photographs or videos of the scene of the accident. These should ideally be taken before anything is moved or repaired to help establish the events and why you suffered a broken ankle;
• Photos of your injuries and any damage to your property;
• CCTV footage of the accident that caused your injury, if any is available;
• Medical records, including your initial diagnosis, treatment received, and any follow-up appointments or procedures;
• An official accident report should have been filed if the accident happened in a public place or at work. You can request a copy of this report to use as evidence;
• The names and contact details of any witnesses. If anyone saw the accident happen or can testify to the circumstances that led to your injury, their statement can be valuable support in your claim for broken ankle compensation;
• Keep receipts for any medical expenses, transportation costs, and other expenses related to your injury. These can help demonstrate the financial impact of your injury;
• If you had to take time off work due to your injury, keep records of your lost earnings and any sick pay or benefits you received during that time;
• In some cases, it may be necessary to hire an expert witness, such as a medical expert or accident reconstruction specialist, to provide testimony about the severity of your injury and the circumstances that led to it.

A personal injury lawyer can help you gather and present this evidence to support your broken ankle claim. For a free initial consultation to assess your case and chances of success, call the free number 0800 678 1410.

Common causes of broken ankle injuries

Broken ankle injuries can occur due to various reasons, including:

Slip, trip, and fall accidents

Slip, trip, and fall accidents are some of the most common causes of broken ankle injuries. When a person trips or falls, their ankle may twist or roll awkwardly, resulting in a fracture. Common causes of slips and trips include preventable hazards like slippery and uneven surfaces, objects left in walkways and poor lighting. If another party was negligent in their duty of care towards you, causing your accident, they might be liable to pay you compensation for your broken ankle.

Sporting activities

Ankle fractures can occur when the foot twists inward or outward during physical activities such as running, jumping, or pivoting. High-impact sports such as basketball or football can cause a broken ankle if the player falls awkwardly or collides with another athlete or an object. Sporting accidents can also occur due to equipment failures, such as a ski binding releasing unexpectedly or a shoe giving way during a jump.

Road traffic accidents

Road traffic accidents can cause a broken ankle in various ways. For instance, during a car crash, your ankle may get crushed or jammed between the pedals and the car floor, leading to a fracture. Similarly, a motorcyclist or cyclist who gets hit by a car or falls off their vehicle may land awkwardly on their ankle, resulting in a fracture. Pedestrians involved in a road traffic accident may also suffer a broken ankle if they get hit by a vehicle, and their ankle is subjected to forceful impact.

Workplace accidents

Accidents at work can cause a broken ankle in several ways, including slips and trips, falls from heights, heavy machinery accidents and incidents involving vehicles such as forklifts. In all of these situations, employers have a duty of care to ensure that their employees are working in a safe environment and to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents from occurring. If they fail to do so and you suffer a broken ankle as a result, you may be eligible to make a broken ankle at work compensation claim.

Defective or unsafe equipment or products

Defective products can cause a broken ankle if they are designed, manufactured, or marketed in a way that makes them unsafe for use. For example, a faulty ladder or a defective piece of machinery could lead to a fall or accident that results in a broken ankle. In such cases, the manufacturer or seller of the product may be held liable for the injury and required to compensate you for your damages.

Physical assaults or violence

Physical assaults that involve blows or kicks to the ankle can also lead to fractures. If someone is kicked or hit with an object, such as a bat or a heavy object, the force of the impact could cause the ankle bone to fracture, leading to a broken ankle injury. If the attacker is unidentified or cannot pay your compensation, you can pursue broken ankle compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.

Medical negligence or malpractice

Medical negligence can cause a broken ankle if a healthcare professional fails to diagnose or properly treat an ankle injury, such as a fracture or dislocation. For example, a doctor might misdiagnose an ankle fracture as a sprain and recommend the wrong course of treatment, leading to further damage or delayed healing. In some cases, surgical errors or complications can also lead to a broken ankle or other injuries.

Overuse or repetitive strain injuries

These types of injuries can lead to stress fractures of the ankle bones over time. For example, athletes who engage in high-impact activities such as running or jumping may develop stress fractures in their ankle bones due to overuse. In some cases, these stress fractures can develop into full-blown ankle fractures. Overuse injuries may also occur in individuals who stand or walk for extended periods, such as retail or healthcare workers.

It is important to note that the cause of the broken ankle injury will affect the evidence required to support a claim and could also impact your broken ankle compensation amount.

Types of ankle fractures

There are several types of ankle fractures, including:

• Lateral malleolus fracture: A fracture of the fibula bone on the outer side of the ankle.
• Medial malleolus fracture: A fracture of the tibia bone on the inner side of the ankle.
• Bimalleolar fracture: A fracture of both the fibula and tibia bones.
• Trimalleolar fracture: A fibula, tibia, and posterior malleolus fracture.
• Maisonneuve fracture: A spiral fracture of the proximal third of the fibula, often accompanied by a medial ankle injury.
• Fracture-dislocation: A combination of a fracture and a dislocation of the ankle joint.

The type of injury you have sustained can affect the broken ankle compensation amount you may be entitled to in a few ways:

• Severity: A simple fracture may require a few weeks of rest and immobilisation, whereas a complex fracture may require surgery and a longer recovery period.
• Long-term effects: Depending on the type of ankle fracture, you may be at risk of long-term complications such as arthritis, nerve damage, or chronic pain. These factors can be taken into consideration when calculating your compensation.
• Loss of earnings: If your ankle fracture has prevented you from working or has impacted your ability to perform your job, the type of fracture can influence the compensation amount you may receive to cover lost earnings.
• Cost of treatment: The type of ankle fracture can impact the cost of treatment, subsequently affecting the compensation you may receive. For example, a more severe fracture may require more extensive treatment and rehabilitation, which can be costly if not provided by the NHS.

Overall, the type of fracture you have sustained is just one factor that can impact your broken ankle compensation. Your solicitor will consider all other factors to ensure you are fairly compensated and can return to a position you would have been in had the accident not occurred.

What is the treatment for a broken ankle?

A broken ankle injury can be excruciating and cause a wide range of signs and symptoms, including:

• Tenderness
• Swelling and bruising
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Stiffness and immobility
• Deformity or misalignment of the ankle
• Numbness or tingling
• An audible cracking or popping sound at the time of injury

If you believe you have suffered an ankle fracture, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention to avoid further injury and receive proper treatment to prevent complications and delays in your recovery. You will usually have an X-ray to see how bad the break is. If you have a minor fracture, the treatment could involve:

• Rest: Keeping the ankle still and not putting weight on it is important to allow the bone to heal.
• Ice: Applying ice to the ankle can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Elevation: Keeping the ankle elevated above heart level can help reduce swelling.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication may be necessary to manage pain.

For a more severe broken ankle injury, you may need the following:

• Cast or brace: A cast or brace may be required to keep the ankle stable and in place during the healing process.
• A special boot: An orthopaedic boot to protect the bones, prevent further damage and help the area heal.
• Bone realignment: A doctor might give you an injection to numb the area and manually move the bones back into place.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the broken bone and promote proper healing. This may involve the use of metal screws, plates or rods to hold the bones in place.
• Rehabilitation: After the ankle has healed, you may need rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

An ankle fracture usually takes six to eight weeks to heal, but it could take longer. This could severely impact your ability to work and carry out daily activities, resulting in financial losses and expenses. If another person was responsible for your accident, you might be entitled to broken ankle compensation.

Broken ankle at work compensation

Employers owe a duty of care to their employees under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which is the primary legislation covering employer responsibilities in the UK. According to this Act, your employer must take all reasonably practicable steps to ensure you are safe from injuries at work and while performing work-related duties. Some of the things they should do to protect your health and safety include:

• Carry out regular risk assessments to identify hazards;
• Remove or minimise any potential threats from the workplace;
• Provide employees with appropriate training and instructions for the job;
• When necessary, provide personal protective equipment, such as safety boots with ankle support, ankle braces or anti-slip shoes;
• Provide and maintain safe work equipment and a safe working environment;
• Consult with employees on matters of health and safety and appoint competent people to manage health and safety within the workplace.

If your employer was negligent in their duty towards you, you might be entitled to broken ankle at work compensation. Some of the most common accidents leading to a claim for ankle fractures include:

• Slips, trips, and falls: Uneven floors, slippery surfaces, poor lighting and cluttered walkways can cause employees to lose their footing and suffer ankle fractures.
• Falling from heights: Employees who work at heights, such as on ladders or scaffolds, are at risk of falling and suffering severe injuries, including broken ankles.
• Heavy lifting and manual handling: Jobs involving heavy lifting or repetitive manual handling can strain the ankle joint and lead to fractures over time.
• Machinery accidents: Accidents involving machinery or equipment, such as getting a foot caught in a conveyor belt, can result in broken ankles.
• Vehicle accidents: Workers operating vehicles or machinery on uneven terrains, such as construction sites, may be at risk of ankle fractures in an accident.

To find out if you could receive broken ankle compensation following your workplace accident, call 0800 678 1410 today or enter your details for a free consultation with a legal adviser.

How is the compensation amount calculated?

The compensation amount for a broken ankle is calculated based on various factors, including the severity of the injury, its impact on your daily life and ability to work, and any financial losses incurred as a result.

In general, two types of compensation can be claimed for a broken ankle: general damages and special damages.

General damages cover the non-financial losses, such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress caused by the injury. The compensation amount for general damages is determined based on the severity of the injury and its long-term effects on your life.

Special damages cover the financial losses you have incurred due to the broken ankle, including medical bills, lost wages, and any future earnings that may be lost due to the injury. The compensation amount for special damages is calculated based on the actual financial losses incurred by the victim, according to evidence such as receipts, invoices and pay slips and could also include:

• Travel expenses to and from medical appointments or legal meetings
• Modifications to your home, such as wheelchair ramps or handrails
• Cost of care and assistance if you require any help with daily activities such as cooking or cleaning
• The cost of special equipment or mobility aids like crutches
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy

To determine the broken ankle compensation amount, your solicitor will typically gather evidence and documentation related to the injury, including medical records, bills, and statements from employers and witnesses. This evidence will then be used to negotiate a settlement with the responsible party’s insurance company or to present the case in court if necessary.

How much compensation can I claim for a broken ankle?

As stated above, your broken ankle compensation award could include both general and special damages. Your personal injury solicitor will ensure that all your losses are included in your claim to secure the highest amount of compensation possible.

Some factors that will determine how much you can claim for a broken ankle include:

• The type and severity of your injury
• Whether you had any fault for the accident
• The circumstances of your injury
• The impact of the fracture on your life
• Any long-term effects of the broken ankle injury, such as mobility issues and instability
• The financial losses and expenses you incurred as a result

It is difficult to provide an accurate estimate without knowing the specific details of your case. However, the compensation for a broken ankle can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of pounds. That includes both general damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity, as well as special damages for expenses related to the injury, such as medical bills and lost earnings. The final amount will be determined by a court or through a negotiated settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company.

The general damages in a broken ankle claim are awarded based on the guidelines offered by the Judicial College, according to which you could receive:

• Up to £13,740 for minor fractures without long-term consequences
• £13,740 to £26,590 for moderate fractures that may need a longer recovery period and cause some degree of disability
• £31,310 to £50,060 for a severe broken ankle injury requiring extensive treatment and recovery and resulting in disability, such as ankle instability
• £50,060 to £69,700 for very severe injuries that require surgery and cause significant disability and deformity

Is there a time limit to start a broken ankle claim?

As with almost all personal injury claims, there is a three-year time limit to claim compensation for a broken ankle. This time limit is set by the Limitation Act 1980 and starts to run from the date of the accident that caused the injury. If the fracture developed over time due to overuse, the three-year countdown begins on the date of knowledge.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as:

• In cases involving children, the three-year time limit does not begin until their 18th birthday, meaning they have until their 21st birthday to make a claim.
• If the injured person lacks the mental capacity to make a claim, there is no time limit for a litigation friend to pursue broken ankle compensation on their behalf.
• For claims made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), the time limit is two years from the date of the incident.
• If you suffered an ankle fracture abroad, the time limit to claim could vary significantly from country to country and could be much shorter than three years.

To avoid missing any crucial deadlines, it is important to contact a personal injury solicitor as soon as possible after suffering a broken ankle. They can let you know if you have a valid claim and how much compensation you could receive for your broken ankle. Starting a claim early will usually make it easier to gather evidence and speak to witnesses and could improve your chances of success.

Can I claim broken ankle compensation on a No Win No Fee basis?

If your case has merit, it is possible to pursue broken ankle compensation on a No Win No Fee basis. During your free initial consultation, an experienced legal adviser will assess your claim and determine your chances of success. If they decide to offer you legal representation, you will sign a Conditional Fee Agreement, which means that:

• You do not have to pay any upfront fees to your solicitor
• They will offer you free support and advice throughout the claims process
• Your solicitor will investigate your claim and help you gather evidence to support it
• They will know exactly how much your claim is worth and ensure you are fully compensated
• Your solicitor will only be paid a success fee if they secure broken ankle compensation
• If your claim is unsuccessful, the solicitor will not receive payment, and you will not lose a single penny

As part of the No Win No Fee agreement, you will also be protected against paying legal fees and disbursements in the event of a loss. This is made possible by the After the Event (ATE) insurance policy your solicitor will take on your behalf before starting legal proceedings.

No Win No Fee is a preferred method of finding a broken ankle claim because it involves no upfront expenses and financial risks. You do not need to pay anything to start a claim, and if your case fails, you will not be left out of pocket.

To start a claim or learn more about how much broken ankle compensation you could receive for your accident, call 0800 678 1410 to speak to a legal adviser. Or, if you prefer an adviser to give you a call, enter your details into the contact form below, and we’ll be in touch shortly.